Criticise Whangarei Traffic Arrangements

Northern Advocate, 27 April 1944, Page 6

Criticise Whangarei Traffic Arrangements

The altitude of a large number of pedestrians and motorists towards Ihe observance of the by-laws affecting traffic in Whangarei was mentioned by the president of tire Whangarei Chamber of Commerce (Mr. C. V. Stranger) at tire quarterly meeting on Monday night. "Pedestrians are to be found wandering all over tire place." Mr. Stringer said. "On the footpaths in Cameron Street the by-laws are not observed. People congregate in bunches and footpaths become blocked, and there appears to Ire very little effort made to control the traffic, which is becoming increasingly heavy. Jay walking is very bad. and becoming more dangerous with the increase in traffic. Pedestrian crossings practically do not exist in the business area. Some measure of control should be exercised. but I do not. suggest this should be done by the borough council authorities." Footpath “Gurgles" The driving of motor vehicles by many motorists badly required supervision, he said, and gave several instances of irregular parking of vehicles, including large trucks, blocking footpaths. He was not referring to those legitimately using footpaths for commercial purposes. "A lot of so-called paths in the borough are a mere jungle," said Mr. C. Jones, who instanced footpaths so covered with grass that it was impossible for any woman with decent stockings to use them. Paths were often used by motorists for parking.

Mr. W. Cross said many visitors to Whangarei had strongly commented on the haphazard method of pedestrians crossing the streets, which made driving very difficult. Other towns had clearly defined crossings. The improvement committee of the Chamber, who are surveying the position, have made some suggestions for clearly defined crossings in the main business areas. These include crossings at the following points:—Bargain Stores. Pest Office. Woolworths, McKenzies and Seafoods.